Tuning In The Global Village : Television Taboos

In some countries, certain subjects aren’t allowed on television. Egypt--sex; anything more than a little kiss Poland--references to the Church or sex Hong Kong--indecent matter; obscene or vulgar language Iran--women without their heads, arms and legs covered; drinking Most Arab countries--nudity, sex or enthusiastic necking; criticism of the head of state; criticism of any religion Brazil--explicit sex and violence during prime time; references to government repression Mexico--criticism of the government Thailand--anything remotely critical of the royal family Japan--criticism of the imperial family or religious sects Israel--any shot of a political candidate; terrorists’ opinions Turkey--ethnic problems Indonesia--anything offending religious sensibilities South Africa--any reference to Jesus Christ; all expletives containing the word “God,” including “Oh, God.”

Art Imitating Life? One of the most popular programs ever in Colombia, “Los Victorinos,” was taken off the air temporarily for being too violent. The soap opera, which dealt with the lives of three young men, ran into criticism when it showed one of the characters becoming a sicario , or hired hitman. The show was suspended for two months after an episode showed the young man killing his father in an argument.

Too Hot in This Kitchen Last year during Ramadan, the month of Muslim fasting, the city of Surabaya in Islamic Indonesia erupted in protest over an imported cooking show called “Wok with Yan.” Not only was Yan cooking during the fast, but he was cooking pork, which Muslims consider offensive. This coincided with a protest about Wonder Woman’s scanty outfits. After a public apology, both shows were canceled. SOURCE: Times Staff Writers and Special Correspondents